The UK Governments is currently operating the so-called Points Based System, or the PBS, which is generally split into the 4 main Tiers: Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 4 and Tier 5. Each of these Tiers is also split into a number of sub-tiers. Generally, the lower the number in the Tier, the more valuable the migrant is for the UK Government. The below is a general description of the currently available Tier 4 immigration categories.

TIER 4 Student (Adults)

The Tier 4 Student visa allows an applicant, aged 16 or over, to come to the UK for the purpose of studying, usually at a higher (non-language school) educational establishments, from a UK Foundation degree to a PhD degree. Your UK educational establishment must have a Tier 4 Student sponsorship license.

Tier 4 Students may not qualify for Settlement and will need to switch into a different immigration category in order to qualify for Settlement.

The Tier 4 Student migrant can bring with them their partners and children under the age of 18 (at the time of the initial application).

Tier 4 Student immigration category may be applied for either from outside of the UK or in the UK.

TIER 4 Child Student

The Tier 4 Child Student visa allows an applicant, aged 4-16, to come to the UK for the purpose of studying at a private school. The school must have a Tier 4 Student sponsorship license.

Tier 4 Child Students may not qualify for Settlement and will need to switch into a different immigration category in order to qualify for Settlement.

Tier 4 Child Student immigration category may be applied for either from outside of the UK or in the UK.

The above is just a general description of the relevant PBS immigration categories, as detailed description and requirements would take hundreds and hundreds of pages (also frequently updated by the UK BA).

We regularly work with the above immigration categories and we can certainly answer your questions or perhaps assist you in coming to the UK as a migrant in one of the Tier PBS categories.

The above options are not exhaustive as we treat every client's case individually. Please do not hesitate to book a phone, Skype or office consultation with us for a professional immigration advice and possible further representation before the UK Border Agency or the First Tier or Upper Tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) (FTT/UTT IAC).